Instant Pot Salmon and Sweet Potato Cat Meal: A Simple, Omega-3 Rich Dish

If your cat could choose, they’d probably eat fish every day, right? And while you may think salmon is too fancy for their bowl, this meal proves it’s both delicious and nutritious.

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, this dish is a perfect option to keep your cat’s coat shiny, their heart healthy, and their tummy satisfied.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup salmon (boneless and skinless, cooked)
• 1/4 cup cooked sweet potato (mashed)
• 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth (unsalted)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Why These Ingredients?

Salmon

Salmon is the star of the show here. It’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your cat’s skin, coat, and overall heart health.

Not only does it help keep their fur glossy and smooth, but it’s also protein-rich, making it an excellent source of nourishment. Salmon also has vitamin D and selenium, both of which support immune function and bone health.

Simply put, salmon is a powerhouse ingredient that cats love!

Sweet Potato

Sweet potato is a great source of fiber and vitamin A, which helps maintain healthy vision, skin, and the immune system. It’s easy to digest, so it’s perfect for cats with sensitive stomachs.

The fiber in sweet potato also supports regular digestion, helping to avoid constipation or digestive upset. Plus, it balances out the richness of the salmon, giving the dish a nice texture and subtle sweetness.

Chicken Broth

The chicken broth adds moisture and flavor to the dish while ensuring your cat stays hydrated.

Many cats don’t drink enough water on their own, so adding broth is a great way to sneak some extra fluids into their diet. Just be sure to use low-sodium, unsalted broth to avoid excess salt.

Olive Oil

A bit of olive oil brings healthy fats into the mix, supporting skin health and boosting energy levels. It also makes the dish even more appetizing.

The omega-3s from olive oil, combined with those in the salmon, are fantastic for overall well-being, helping your cat maintain a shiny coat and healthy joints.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this dish in the Instant Pot is a breeze. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Cook the Salmon

Start by cooking your salmon. If you’re using fresh salmon, you can bake, grill, or pan-cook it. Just make sure it’s boneless and skinless—we don’t want any bones or skin in the mix.

Once cooked, break the salmon into small, bite-sized pieces. If you’re using canned salmon, make sure it’s packed in water and drained before adding it to the Instant Pot.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potato

While the salmon is cooking, peel and chop the sweet potato into small chunks. Steam or boil until tender, then mash it until smooth.

Make sure there are no lumps, as cats prefer smooth textures. If you want to make it extra easy, you can use canned plain sweet potato puree instead of cooking it yourself.

Step 3: Add Ingredients to the Instant Pot

Add the mashed sweet potato, cooked salmon, olive oil, and chicken broth to the Instant Pot.

Stir everything together to combine. You can use a spoon or spatula to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

Step 4: Set the Instant Pot

Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to pressure cook on low for 5 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and heat everything through without overcooking the ingredients.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once the Instant Pot finishes cooking, release the pressure and open the lid. Let the food cool to room temperature before serving it to your cat—cats can be picky about hot food, and you don’t want to burn their little mouths!

Once cooled, serve the meal in their bowl and watch them enjoy the omega-3 goodness.

Portioning & Storing

Portioning

For an average-sized cat (around 5–8 pounds), 1/4 to 1/2 cup of this meal is usually enough for one serving. Larger cats may need more, so adjust the portion accordingly.

This meal is best served 2–3 times a week as a supplement to their regular diet, not as a full meal replacement.

Storing

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 1 month.

When you’re ready to serve, just thaw and warm it to room temperature. Never serve food that’s too hot—let it cool first!

Common Mistakes

• Not draining the salmon – If you’re using canned salmon, make sure it’s packed in water and drained before adding it to the Instant Pot.
• Using regular broth – Always opt for low-sodium, unsalted chicken broth. Regular broth has too much salt, which can be harmful to cats.
• Overcooking the sweet potato – Don’t overcook the sweet potato. It should be soft but not mushy—cats like a smooth, easily digestible texture.
• Serving the food too hot – Always let the food cool to room temperature before serving. Cats are picky about hot food and can burn their mouths if it’s too warm.

Health Benefits

This Instant Pot Salmon and Sweet Potato Cat Meal is not just tasty—it’s packed with nutrients to keep your cat healthy and happy.

Healthy Coat

The omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon and olive oil help nourish your cat’s coat, keeping it shiny, soft, and smooth. Regular servings of omega-3s can help reduce shedding and dryness, so your cat will look their best.

Digestive Health

The fiber in sweet potato supports digestion and helps prevent constipation. It’s gentle on the stomach, making it a great choice for cats with sensitive digestive systems.

Hydration

The chicken broth adds moisture to the meal, helping to keep your cat hydrated. Many cats don’t drink enough water on their own, so this extra boost is beneficial for their overall health.

Looking For More Recipes?

If you’re looking for more great and easy recipes, have a look on other articles on our blog! You can also watch the video below – it’s a fantastic recipe too 🙂

FAQ

1. Can I use other fish instead of salmon?
Yes! You can use mackerel, sardines, or trout. Just make sure it’s boneless and packed in water.

2. Can I use fresh sweet potato instead of canned?
Yes! Just make sure to peel and cook the sweet potato, then mash it until smooth.

3. Can I add other vegetables to this meal?
Yes! Carrots, peas, or spinach can be added in small amounts for extra nutrients. Just make sure they’re cooked and cut into small pieces.

4. How often can I serve this meal to my cat?
This meal should be served 2–3 times a week as a supplement, not a daily meal replacement.

5. Can I make this recipe for kittens?
This meal is great for adult cats, but for kittens, it’s best to check with your vet about appropriate portions and ingredients for their growing needs.

Final Thoughts

The Instant Pot Salmon and Sweet Potato Cat Meal is a healthy, easy-to-make dish that will leave your cat purring for more.

Rich in omega-3s, fiber, and essential nutrients, it supports their skin, coat, and digestive health. Plus, it’s simple to prepare—thanks to the Instant Pot, you can cook up a delicious meal for your cat without spending hours in the kitchen.

Your cat will love the flavors, and you’ll love how easy it is to make. 🙂